Hosting Guidelines

Introduction

WSD aims to provide a safe and comfortable atmosphere in which the newly single can relax and enjoy themselves. That’s why only WSD members are eligible to host and attend our social events. We’ve all been through the course and understand each other’s needs. Particularly when the events are ‘mixed’, we understand that our behaviour needs to be respectful and mindful of others’ sensitivities.

WSD’s philosophy is – we help each other. By offering to host an event, you are not only helping other WSD members, you are also helping yourself. If you have never tried hosting before, why not co-host with someone else?

Provide instructions on how to get there, and, if necessary, advice on where to park. Your cell phone no. is useful in case they get lost. Be clear about how long you will wait for those who get lost or delayed.

If the event is suitable for children, let people know.

Keep the cost of participation down as far as possible. Advise any admission fee and how tickets can be purchased, or provide an indicative cost for the evening (e.g. cheap and cheerful, mains under $20).

Be prepared to answer texts, phone calls or emails from people enquiring about the event and/or go online to see who is coming. You may also be able to facilitate car sharing.

If no one enquires about the event, please still go to the venue and wait for a little while (15 mins). Normally people indicate attendance, but some may arrive unannounced. If no one turns up, please don’t take it personally. It simply means the particular event doesn’t suit at the time. This is an ideal test of your resilience!

Hosting events at home (e.g. Shared meal, games night)

Look out for people arriving, greet them warmly, and introduce yourself and others who may have already arrived. People need to feel part of the group so watch out for anyone standing or sitting on their own. This may be the first time that they have gone out alone after losing a partner. This is an ideal chance for you to practise your interpersonal and communication skills.

If your event is a shared meal you are not expected to cook for and look after everyone. Provide crockery and cutlery, but let the guests get their food ready for the table. Drinks are BYO except for tea and coffee. Allow guests to help with anything else that’s required. At the end of the evening, allow them to help tidy up, do the dishes and put things away. People like to be helpful. It makes them feel good. And you won’t end up exhausted.

Hosting events in public places

If the event is in a public place (e.g. a restaurant, gallery, golf course), describe how people can identify you as the host (e.g. what you will be wearing). Or explain how they can find you (e.g. ask at reception).

At the venue look out for people arriving, greet them warmly, and introduce yourself and others who may have already arrived. People need to feel part of the group so watch out for anyone standing or sitting on their own. This may be the first time that they have gone out alone after losing a partner. This is an ideal chance for you to practise your interpersonal and communication skills.

Hosting Hikes, Walks etc.

People’s fitness levels differ. Be clear about the level of fitness your event is pitched at, any equipment they need to bring to be both comfortable and safe, and how long the event is expected to take. Also any entrance fees and when these are paid.

People will need directions to get there (car/public transport), and a route map. Be clear about how long you will wait for those who get lost on the way.

Looking for inspiration for hosting?

The following adapted from “Five Ways to Personal Wellbeing” provides some ideas for group activity that will act as a stress buster for all concerned.

Connect

Interact with friends and colleagues.

Option 1 – “Open Event” – any WSD member may attend.

Option 2 – “Closed event” – you decide who comes.

Both encourage socialising, but the latter carries the risk that some people are (consistently?) excluded.

Because men and women enjoy different things you may find your guests select accordingly.

Members with young children may find it difficult to attend if they can’t bring the children.

Learn or create

You and your guests might be learning/creating together. Alternatively, you (or someone you know) might share a skill of benefit to others in the group